Meet the Team
Experience you can trust
We bring years of experience and devotion to every appointment. Discover more about our team or better yet, come meet us in person at our Bexleyheath clinic.
Meet Our Founders
Javier and Rafael often get praised for their ability to understand their patients and clients to deliver the best possible treatment. Their warmth, professionalism and openness shine through everything they do.
Javier Herrero
Veterinary Surgeon and Director
Originally from Spain, I became a Veterinary Surgeon at the University of Leon in 2007. Since 2009, I have been practising in the UK, with a primary focus on patient care. At the beginning of my career, I balanced day clinic and emergency service work, which led me to pursue additional training in surgery and minimally invasive procedures, that we provide at NoviVet.
As a vet, I understand that decisions about our pets' health are not always straightforward. My goal is to help pet owners understand their options and make the best decisions for their pet's wellbeing.
When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, watching sports, and going hiking.
Rafael Garrido
Veterinary Surgeon and Director
Born in Granada, Spain, I followed my lifelong dream of becoming a vet, graduating from the University of Córdoba in 2006. Since 2007, I've been caring for small animals in the UK, forming strong bonds with pets and owners alike.
The most satisfying part of my job is helping my patients overcome obstacles in the way and lead long, happy lives. Their gratitude and joy when they get better are priceless to me. With a keen interest in surgery, I strive to deliver the best possible care to every patient.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, indulging in fossil hunting, photography, and travelling.
Get to Know Our Staff
You will receive a warm welcome and support throughout your visit. Our staff goes the extra mile to create a stress-free experience for you and your pet.
Mariana Cabral, Veterinary Surgeon
I graduated from the University of Nottingham in 2024, having previously
worked in human medicine research, although veterinary medicine was
always my dream.
The most rewarding part of my work is seeing patients get better. I
cannot overstate how happy that makes me. I’m also known for singing to
my patients; whether they find it soothing or simply distracting remains
up for debate, but it is always delivered with care and the very best
intentions.
I usually arrive at work on my pink bike, which has become something of
a trademark. Outside of work, I enjoy dancing, playing netball, and
frisbee.
Georgia Michael, Veterinary Surgeon
Born and raised in Cyprus, I knew from a very young age that I wanted to
become a veterinary surgeon. After graduating from the University of Veterinary Medicine in
Budapest in 2025, I spent six months working in a small animal and
exotic clinic in Cyprus, where I provided veterinary care for dogs,
cats and exotic species such as
small mammals and birds. My goal has always been to build close
relationships with both my patients and their owners, and to be there
for them every step of the way.
I moved to the UK to
further develop my skills and gain experience with cutting-edge
veterinary medicine.
In my free time, I enjoy staying active through working out and playing
volleyball, and also I love relaxing by baking.
Stephanie Langford, Head Veterinary Nurse
I have worked in the veterinary industry since 2014 and qualified as a
Registered Veterinary Nurse in 2019. After qualifying, I chose to pursue
my career in a more leadership-focused direction and was appointed Head
Nurse and Clinical Coach in my previous role, where I oversaw both the
nursing and reception teams. I also locumed at an out-of-hours emergency
clinic in my spare time, which helped me extend my knowledge in
Emergency and Critical Care (ECC).
In early 2025, I joined NoviVet as Head Nurse, a role that keeps me
busy, challenged, and never short of variety.
Phoebe Mallion, Veterinary Nurse
I qualified as a Registered Veterinary Nurse in January 2024 from the
Central College of Animal Studies, and have always known I wanted to
work with animals from a young age. I particularly enjoy nursing
inpatients because I love being involved in their recovery and seeing
their confidence and strength return each day. I enjoy giving them the
TLC they need while they're in kennels, helping them feel calm and
comfortable.
Outside of work, I have a dog called Rocke and I enjoy dancing - my
signature move is the worm, I just can't resist. I also love anything
adrenaline-fuelled, with skydiving next on my list to tick off.
Ashleigh Hodge, Veterinary Nurse
I have been working in the veterinary industry since 2017. Before that, I worked as a kennel hand and with a rescue organisation. I share my life with three wonderful dogs: Albert, a blind and deaf border collie, Tilly, a retired working cocker spaniel, and Ernie, a cockapoo with special needs as he has a cleft palate.
My area of expertise is juvenile care, and I have a lot of experience in hand-rearing puppies, kittens, and, occasionally, wildlife.
Apart from work, I enjoy playing darts and going on long adventures with my partner and dogs.
Sophia Roach, Veterinary Nurse
I've worked in the veterinary industry for just over a decade and have
wanted to work with animals since I was four years old, so I can
safely say I'm doing what I love.
While I enjoy all aspects of veterinary nursing, I have a particular
passion for anaesthesia and analgesia. I further developed this interest
by completing my Nursing Certificate in Anaesthesia and Analgesia in
November 2025.
Outside of work, I enjoy discovering new restaurants with my husband,
spending time with friends and family, reading, and gaming. I share my
home with three cats. Cally, the old lady out the trio, Fred, who I hand
reared from 8 days old, and Craig, the mischievous one out the trio.
Charlotte French, Veterinary Nurse
I qualified as a Registered Veterinary Nurse in 2025 after completing my
nursing degree at Middlesex University. Since starting my career I
ensure to treat every patient as if they were my own, providing
compassionate, attentive care at all times.
At home, I share my life with two cats and previously owned a
Staffie who completely convinced me they're the best breed.
Outside of work I love to spend my time with family and friends , eating
out at restaurants and watching movies.
Toni Day, Receptionist
I have worked as a veterinary receptionist for 12 years, where I get to combine my love for working with people and my passion for pets. Before this, I spent 25 years working in libraries.
My job as a receptionist is incredibly fulfilling as no two days are the same. I face different challenges and get to enjoy a cuddle with pets and a chat with their owners.
When I'm not at work, I enjoy staying active through fitness, hiking gardening and taking care of my beloved dog and rabbits.
Katie Puttock, Receptionist
I’ve been a Veterinary Receptionist since 2017 and enjoy every aspect of my role from chatting on the phone to submitting your insurance claims. The best thing about my job is watching your pets grow up and building a relationship with the clients.
Your pets will know me as ‘Auntie Katie’ and gain another 1kg before they enter the consulting room (don’t tell Javier or Rafael!)
Outside of work, I enjoy a bottomless brunch, smiling at strangers’ dogs on a walk and a cat nap.
Jo Jones, Receptionist
I joined the team in February 2024 and have loved getting to know all
the animals and owners I've met so far, as well as welcoming new ones
each day. I've been married for 30 years and have a grown-up son and
daughter. At home, I share my life with a 4-year-old dog and a
19-year-old cat. In my spare time, I enjoy holidays with my family as
well as trips away with friends.
Carol Clark, Receptionist
I am new to the Veterinary industry and joined the reception team at the
end of April 2025. I worked at a GP Practice for 5 years before this,
but with a love for animals this was a great opportunity to be part of a
team who cares for them also.
Seeing the love and bond between owners and their pets on a daily basis is
a joy, and being able to help in anyway I can is so fulfilling and also
a privilege, plus I get lots of cuddles too (from pets!)
In my spare time, I enjoy walks with my dog, spending time with family,
gardening and DIY.